A vivid magenta rim surrounds an opaque purple almost black core. The 2013 Guimaraens displays the opulent fruit character that defines Fonseca's style. The nose opens with a surge of powerful and intense woodland berry aromas, rich and juicy but with no signs of over ripeness. Notes of apricot emerge as the wine opens in the glass, followed by warmer notes of cedar, smoke and dark chocolate.
A tinge of discreet floral and herbal aromas contribute additional dimension and complexity. In the mouth the palate is virtually overwhelmed by rich black berry flavors and the dense, compact tannins that provide impressive volume and abundance. Illusively velvety after attack, the tannins emerge on the finish with a firm and confident grip. This is a Vintage Port whose seductive, hedonistic fruitiness makes it an excellent choice for earlier consumption but which has a structure and vigor that will ensure it a long life in bottle.
The preceding winter was very rainy, with precipitation in Pinion 30% above average. The water reserves in the soil were full after the arid conditions of 2012. In contrast to the heavy rainfall at the beginning of the year, the growing season was dry with only 100mm of rain between April and August. As a result the vines were virtually free of any disease.
The beginning of the growing season was relatively cool leading to slow growth and late veraison around July 15. July and August saw some very high temperatures which accelerated the cycle and encouraged the ripening of the crop. July was the hottest month, with an average temperature above 26°C, and in both July and August there were 11 days when the temperature exceeded 40°C.
The hot weather extended into September but some rain early in the month helped to refine the ripening. The harvest started at Quinta do Panascal on September 21st, and at the properties in the Pinhão valley, Cruzeiro and Santo António on the 23rd. The harvest was going on under excellent conditions until September 27th when it started to rain heavily. Fortunately the best grapes were already safe and produced deeply red and aromatic musts.
| Volume: | 75cl |
| Alcoholpercentage: | 20% |
